Programme

The summit opened by with a keynote from Colipa on how sustainability is linked to innovation in the cosmetics industry. Proceeding papers featured some of the leading sustainability initiatives in the beauty industry, placing emphasis on positive impacts. With so much focus on reducing footprints, this session explored ways cosmetic and ingredient firms can create positive social and environmental impacts. Topics included positive contribution by fair trade, combating climate change, ecological packaging, novel retailing approaches, and sustainability case studies.

With growing evidence linking natural beauty to general health & wellness, this session looked at the growing convergence of food / nutrition and cosmetics. Key papers discussed the way beauty products are crossing over into the realms of skin nutrition, the importance of healthy diets, and general well-being. Case studies were given of companies leading the way in this emerging field.

For the first time in Europe, CEOs of leading natural & organic cosmetic brands formed a roundtable and discussed key industry challenges. Topics on this interactive session included natural & organic marketing claims, certification preferences, and changing market conditions. Summit participants posed questions and discussed key challenges with the CEO panel.
 

Tuesday 28th November: Day Two

Session Four: Marketing & Distribution Innovations

Marketing and distribution have become critical success factors in the sustainable (natural & organic) cosmetics market. This session covered some of the major marketing & distribution developments, placing emphasis on green marketing and greenwashing. Latest findings from Organic Monitor's natural cosmetics brand assessment study were presented.

Other topics on the agenda included taking the direct route (concept stores), the spa market potential, retailer's perspectives and targeting green consumers. Key speakers formed a panel to discuss ways of combating greenwashing by legitimate green marketing.

Session Five: Sourcing and Using Green Ingredients

Cosmetic and ingredient firms are under growing pressure to develop and use sustainable raw materials. Rising oil prices and dwindling supply are leading a shift towards plant-based materials, with many food crops grown for beauty ingredients. This session focused on some of the major technical and sustainability issues of using plant / food-based raw materials.
 

Wednesday 30th November: Day Three

Workshop I: Formulating with Green Ingredients - Surfactants, Emulsifiers and Preservatives

Some of the major technical issues associated with natural & organic beauty products involve replacing synthetic emulsifiers, surfactants and preservatives. This new workshop was a practical guide for cosmetic companies looking to use green ingredients in cosmetic formulations.

The workshop leader looked at the role of surfactants, emulsifiers and preservatives in cosmetics; the green chemical alternatives and associated formulation issues. Technical advice and guidance was given in the interactive session.

Workshop II: Business Opportunities in European Market for Natural & Organic Cosmetics

Healthy growth is continuing in the European natural & organic cosmetics market, however market conditions have changed considerably in recent years. The entry of large cosmetic brands, retailer private labels and other new entrants are raising competitive stakes. Shelf-space in some retailers is also reaching saturation.

This workshop gave a detailed analysis of the European market, highlighting the major growth opportunities for existing brands and new entrants. Case studies were given of brands adopting winning marketing & distribution strategies.